They’re engaging. They’re addictive. They’re fun. Gacha is one of those genres which can grab a hold of you and not let go, thanks to its addictive gameplay loops and loot-box mechanics keeping you hooked.
Whether you’re new to the genre or simply looking for another game to play, let’s take a look at some of the most popular Gacha games which you can play on mobile today.
- Genshin Impact
One of the biggest gacha games out there. Genshin Impact takes the best parts of Breath of the Wild, Pokémon and other popular franchises and synthesises them into a huge online, open-world RPG. Where you can fight, climb and explore your way to greatness.
Chances are, you’ve probably already played Genshin impact. But if you haven’t it’s probably the most popular gacha game on the market today, and it’s definitely worth your time.
- Fate/Grand Order
Based on the longstanding Fate franchise, this gacha game is a turn-based RPG. It’s most well known for having a compelling and engaging storyline within which a huge roster of historical and mythological characters collide.
- Fire Emblem Heroes
From one of the world’s most beloved game companies—Nintendo—Fire Emblem Heroes is Nintendo’s first foray into the gacha genre, but it’s no slouch. With its tactical grid-based combat and impressively huge roster of characters, Fire Emblem Heroes has a lot to offer. Especially if you’re a long-term fan of the Fire Emblem series!
- Arknights
Tower defence may not be the first style of gameplay to come to mind when you think of gacha games, but Arknights proves that it should be. Arknights challenges players to defend against waves upon waves of enemies using a roster of operators, each bringing their unique abilities to the table. Not only is it unique for its gameplay, but it also provides a compelling narrative and a stylish art-style, earning it a dedicated following.
- Honkai: Star Rail
From the creators of Genshin Impact, which already featured on this list, Honkai: Star Rail takes players on an interstellar journey featuring turn-based combat and a multi-planetary storyline. Just like Genshin Impact, it features stunning character design and visuals, making it a genre favourite. For players jumping into the game for the first time, it’s worth considering a honkai star rail top up to get ahead of the crowd!
- Azur Lane
A shooter more your style? Azur Lane combines elements of shoot ‘em up games with gacha mechanics, to create a unique twist on both genres. Here, players collect and command a fleet of warships, engaging in fast-paced, side-scrolling naval battles. It’s one for the action-focused gamer.
- Dragon Ball Legends
If you’re a fan of Dragon Ball… This is for you. Duh! Dragon Ball Legends casts the franchise onto the gacha format, combining gacha mechanics with real-time battles. Of course, the game features all the best characters from the franchise, allowing you to take control of them and fight in glorious 3D.
- Epic Seven
For the story-focused gamer, Epic Seven is a game best known for stunning 2D animations and a deep storyline. It’s turn-based RPG mechanics are competent, but the story is really where its at. Allowing players to get deep into the lore and characters.
- Marvel Strike Force
Superhero fans will love Marvel Strike Force, which brings the best of Marvel to a gacha game. It features team-based combat focusing on tactical synergies between heroes, upping the importance of unlocking and choosing the best heroes (and villains) for the job. Given the enormous IP it comes from, Marvel Strike Force is a top pick for many mobile gamers.
10. Final Fantasy Brave Exvius
Square Enix’s legendary franchise has, of course, come to the gacha genre. Bringing the beloved story-focused franchise into a new format. Combining the series’ classic pixel-art of yesteryear with complex gacha mechanics. Offering a nostalgic but fresh experience for fans of the series.
What’s Next for Gacha Games?
This genre has been around for a long time, but only recently has it seriously exploded. Much of this has been thanks to the rise of mobile game, creating a viable platform for many of these games to reach a wide and diverse audience.
While gacha games certainly aren’t going anywhere any time soon, over the past decade they have been facing increased scrutiny due to their monetization models, which many find quite predatory. In some cases, resulting in the dreaded pay-to-win.
It’s clear that gacha games are going to continue to evolve. Perhaps bringing in new genres and franchise cross-overs, with developers also finding new ways to circumvent the ethical and pay-to-win issues which currently surround the genre.
